Roger Albums (4)
What The Critics Say
Roger Troutman's vocoder/funk seemed a bit thin by the early '90s. While many of his classic vamps with Zapp had been sampled by numerous rappers, Troutman hadn't found a new gimmick. He occasionally generated an interesting riff or lick, but mostly this album demonstrated that Roger's best days were behind him, at least as a hit act. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
The vocoder-crazed leader of Zapp has made numerous solo albums, but this is the best, powered by enormous synth riffs and the charming "Private Lover." ~ John Floyd, All Music Guide
'The Saga Continues'
Release Date 1/1/1984
Tracks 8
Label Warner Bros.
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
Unique, creative, and the consummate showman, are only a few of the adjectives you could use to describe The Saga Continues. Roger uses his vocoder or talk box to great effects on a sizzling, squealing version of Wilson Pickett's "In the Midnight Hour," accompanied by the Mighty Clouds of Joy. A bouncy "In The Mix" soared to #10 R&B in 1984. Ex-Ohio Players' keyboardist, Billy Beck helps on keyboards, and Maceo Parker adds his usual awesome sax outbursts. Most of the songs were written by Roger and his brother Larry, including "Play Your Guitar Brother Roger," awhere his playing skills are highlighted. While a solo album, the lineup remains the same as on the Zapp releases, the musical approach remains the same. ~ Andrew Hamilton, All Music Guide
'The Many Facets of Roger'
Release Date 1/1/1981
Tracks 6
Label Warner Bros.
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
This is Roger Troutman's first solo release, and it blazes the same trail as the Zapp LPs. Singing through a synthesized vocal box, there's no mistaking Roger's sound. His version of Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong's "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" is classic, and was a monster on the R&B charts. "So Ruff, So Tuff" continued the maddening dance grooves. But Roger does it all -- hence the title of the album; his blues and jazz explorations are top-shelf. A very well-rounded set from a versatile, underappreciated artist. ~ Andrew Hamilton, All Music Guide
